Reid's attempt to invoke cloture failed, but a few more "white flag" GOP Senators voted with him.

McCain was not voting. If he wants to do something to get the base excited, he might consider being out in front leading a Senate charge in favor of the troops and the surge he advocated. He could make a lot of "good pub" in that endeavor.

In Iraq, Petraeus need a few good battles, and some diplomatic coups to keep these birds off balance.

McCain is no leader, Vnjagvet. He is neither respected nor admired within the Senate. He has never been elected to any leadership position within the caucus nor was he ever entrusted with running the NRSC. He must need some oil for his weathervane at the moment.

There were nine Republicans who were not there, I think. It seems to me that they thought to themselves if Reid does not have 60, I don't need to vote. But they should have voted anyway. McCain was off campaigning. He should have voted.

Reid is going to allow the debate on the floor next week. Let's see if he allows the Republicans to debate. Let's see if Reid allows the Gregg resolution to go on the floor.

Reid and Pelosi are not going to stop until they get what they want by October. Bush has until October to make significant progress. Problem is that AQ, Sadr, and other terrorists are not going to quit after October.